NextGen IRMA

What is a NextGen IRMA? 

NextGen IRMA stands for Next-Generation Imatinib Resistance Mutation Analysis. It is a highly advanced genetic test that uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to examine your blood for specific genetic changes in cancer cells. This test helps detect mutations in the BCR-ABL1 gene that may make certain cancer medications, particularly imatinib, less effective in treating your condition. 

The test primarily helps diagnose chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and monitors why cancer treatments might stop working effectively. 

What does the NextGen IRMA measure? 

This sophisticated test provides crucial information about treatment resistance by examining genetic changes in your cancer cells: 

• Identifies genetic mutations in the BCR-ABL1 kinase domain that cause resistance to Imatinib and similar medications. 

• Detects resistance early by finding even small numbers of resistant cancer cells in your blood before symptoms worsen. 

• Guides future treatment by identifying the exact mutation, helping your oncologist choose the most effective alternative medication. 

• Monitors treatment response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors and assesses disease progression. 

NextGen IRMA: Who Needs It and Why It's Done 

What Symptoms May Call for a NextGen IRMA? 

Your doctor may recommend this test if you're already receiving treatment for CML and show signs that your therapy isn't working as expected: 

• Your blood counts are not improving as they should during treatment. 

• Return of CML symptoms such as extreme tiredness, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fever, or feeling of fullness below the ribs. 

• The levels of BCR-ABL1 gene in your blood are not decreasing adequately over time. 

• You had previously responded well to treatment, but your blood counts or BCR-ABL1 levels are rising again. 

• Your CML is progressing from a stable chronic phase to a more aggressive stage despite being on treatment. 

• Your regular monitoring tests suggest that your current medication is losing its effectiveness. 

Who should get a NextGen IRMA? 

This specialised test is recommended for specific patient groups who need personalised cancer treatment guidance: 

• Patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) currently being treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. 

• Individuals with Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Ph+ ALL). 

• Patients showing treatment failure where current cancer medication is becoming less effective. 

• Patients requiring minimal residual disease monitoring to assess treatment response. 

Why is a NextGen IRMA done? 

This test provides precise genetic diagnosis for treatment failure, moving from general treatment approaches to personalised medicine. It ensures you receive the most effective medication for your specific type of resistant cancer. 

Importance of a NextGen IRMA 

The NextGen IRMA test plays a crucial role in modern cancer care by enabling personalised treatment decisions. Instead of using a trial-and-error approach when your current medication stops working, this test provides clear genetic insights that help your oncologist switch you to a more effective drug.  

By identifying the exact mutation causing treatment resistance, your doctor can select a second- or third-generation therapy known to work against that specific genetic change. This proactive approach helps regain control over your condition, improves your long-term outlook, and prevents disease progression to more advanced stages. 

NextGen IRMA Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India 

How to Book a NextGen IRMA? 

1. Simple Online Booking 
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select NextGen IRMA, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the blood sample directly at the lab. However, for a bone marrow sample, you will need to visit a Metropolis Lab, as it can only be collected from the concerned doctor or hospital. 
    
2. Safe Home Sample Collection 
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols. 
    
3. Sample Tracking Updates 
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website. 
    
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing 
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results. 
    
5. Quick & Easy Reports 
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. 

Is home sample collection for NextGen IRMA available near you? 

Yes, home blood sample collection for NextGen IRMA is available at Metropolis Healthcare. Our trained phlebotomists follow strict safety protocols while collecting your blood sample at your preferred time and location. This service eliminates the need for hospital visits, making genetic testing more accessible and comfortable. However, home sample collection is not available for the bone marrow samples, as they are obtained by your doctor or the hospital. 

How Long Does It Take to Get a NextGen IRMA Report? 

Reports are usually available after 4 weeks once the sample reaches the lab. 

Note: Reporting time may vary depending on your location. 

Where can I see or get NextGen IRMA results? 

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab. 

Interpreting NextGen IRMA Results 

The following table helps you understand what your NextGen IRMA results mean for your treatment plan: 

Parameter	Result Type	If Detected	If Not Detected
BCR-ABL	Detected/Not Detected	Specific resistance mutation identified; treatment adjustment may be needed	Current treatment may continue to be effective; no known resistance mutations found

 

Conditions that May Affect NextGen IRMA Accuracy 

Several factors can influence your NextGen IRMA results and should be discussed with your healthcare team: 

• Sample quality issues such as insufficient blood volume, clotted samples, or inappropriate storage temperature can affect results. 

• Recent blood transfusions may dilute the cancer cells in your sample, potentially affecting mutation detection. 

• Timing of sample collection in relation to your treatment cycle may influence the number of detectable cancer cells. 

• Concurrent medications beyond your cancer treatment should be reported to ensure accurate interpretation. 

• Laboratory handling requires proper EDTA tube collection and appropriate shipping conditions to maintain sample integrity. 

How is a NextGen IRMA Done? 

The NextGen IRMA test follows a systematic process to analyse your genetic material: 

• A healthcare professional will clean the inside of your elbow with an antiseptic solution. 

• A sterile needle is inserted into a vein to collect 3ml of blood in a special EDTA tube. For a bone marrow sample, your doctor will take the sample and provide it to the lab. 

• The blood sample is carefully labelled and transported to our molecular pathology laboratory. 

• Advanced Next-Generation Sequencing technology is used to analyse the BCR-ABL1 gene. 

• Expert pathologists examine the genetic sequence to identify any resistance mutations. 

• A detailed report is prepared indicating whether mutations are present and their specific types. 

How Should You Prepare for a NextGen IRMA? 

Preparing for your NextGen IRMA test is straightforward and requires minimal effort: 

• No fasting required - You can eat and drink normally before the test. 

• Continue your medications - Do not stop taking your CML treatment or any other prescribed drugs unless specifically instructed by your doctor. 

• Stay hydrated - Drink adequate water to make blood collection easier. 

• Inform the laboratory - Tell the technician about all medications and supplements you're currently taking. 

• Bring required documents - Carry your haematopathological reports and referring doctor's contact number. 

Diseases that a NextGen IRMA Can Help Detect 

This specialised genetic test helps identify and monitor several important health conditions: 

• Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) - Primary indication for detecting treatment resistance mutations. 

• Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia - Monitoring treatment response and resistance development. 

• Treatment-resistant blood cancers - Identifying genetic causes of medication failure. 

• Minimal residual disease - Detecting small numbers of remaining cancer cells after treatment. 

• Disease progression - Monitoring changes in cancer genetics over time. 

NextGen IRMA/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare 

Metropolis Healthcare offers comprehensive cancer testing options to support various diagnostic needs: 

Test/Package Name	Purpose/Highlights
Leukaemia AML Panel By FISH Test	Detects genetic abnormalities in acute myeloid leukaemia using fluorescence in situ hybridisation
Leukemia - Chronic Lymphoproliferative Disorder Test, Blood	Comprehensive evaluation of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and related disorders
Tumour/Cancer Marker Profile Test	Screens for multiple cancer markers to aid in diagnosis and monitoring